We all want to be as healthy and happy as possible. But too many ready made snacks are full of refined sugars that are terrible for your teeth and your overall health and wellness. Here is a list of our favorite snacks that are not only satisfying, but will provide your body with the nutrition it needs for a beautiful smile and a healthy body.

Apples with seed or nut butter

Delicious and packed with vitamins, minerals, fiber and protein! What’s more, according to the College of Dentistry, eating apples or other hard, fibrous fruits, can help clean your teeth and increase salivation, which may neutralize the citric or malic acids left in your mouth.

Crunchy veggies with hummus

Crunchy vegetables are full of the nutritious stuff your body needs and since they require a lot of chewing, like apples, this can stimulate the production of saliva to help whisk away the gross stuff. Dip them in hummus for a creamy and satisfying snack that will get you through the afternoon.

Berries with plain or coconut yogurt

Craving something a little sweet? Try mixing fresh or frozen berries with plain yogurt. You’ll get the benefit of vitamins, minerals, protein and probiotics in one tasty treat.

Nuts, seeds and dried cranberries or raisins (no sugar added kind)

Make your own healthy version of trail mix to keep with you on the go. Try your favorite nut like almonds and mix it with pumpkin or sunflower seeds and top it off with dried cranberries or raisins to satisfy your sweet tooth. Be sure to look for dried cranberries and raisins with no added sugar! While dried cranberries and raisins do have a lot of sugar naturally, one study by the University of Chicago showed that the phytochemical in raisins suppressed the growth of bacteria associated with gum disease.

Root Vegetable Chips

Get your veggies in the form of a savory chip! Root vegetables like tarro, carrots, beets, and sweet potato, make great chips that are pretty easy to make at home yourself but there are also store bought versions like Terra Chips that you can grab at go. Just pay attention to the amount of sodium per serving if you buy them ready made!

For more great snack ideas that are good for your teeth, check out The Best Foods For A Health Smile And Whole Body article from the UIC College of Dentistry. Do you have any delicious and nutritious snack ideas to share with us? Comment below so we can share them with our clients!